Laughing Matters Benefiting Cancer Support Community of Washington, D.C.

Laughing Matters is a pay-what-you-want improv show dedicated to raising funds for the Cancer Support Community of Washington, DC. For the past five years, this event has brought together students, performers, and community members across Howard County to prove that laughter can be more than entertainment—it can be a source of hope, connection, and healing.

The Cancer Support Community works to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities, and breaking down barriers to care. Inspired by the legacy of comedian and cancer advocate Gilda Radner, Laughing Matters carries forward the belief that community, humor, and human connection are powerful tools in facing life’s hardest challenges.

This year’s event will feature three high school improv teams, live music from the Hammond Jazz Band, raffles for exciting experiences around the Baltimore/DC area, and the crowd-favorite chance to pie a performer in the face. More than just a show, Laughing Matters creates a stage where young comedians can share their creativity while making a meaningful difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.

Every laugh helps support programs that provide free emotional support, education, and community for patients, survivors, and families navigating the cancer journey. Together, we hope to show that when people come together with compassion and joy, laughter truly does matter. And community is stronger than cancer.

History of the Event:

Laughing Matters began as an AP Government service project. It started as “June 1st” an untitled Improv show featuring members of All County Improv(ACI) known only by its date. In 2024, it expanded to include multiple Improv teams, including Hammond High’s Darmastics, as well as all members of ACI. In 2023, Laughing Matters partnered with Hammond’s National Honor Society, who has put on the event ever since.

Performing Groups:

• AHI Tuna - AHI Tuna is the premiere Improv team of Atholton High School. They’re ready to make their Laughing Matters debut on the Hammond stage on 4/23!
• Dramastics - Dramastics is Hammond High’s long running Improv team. Their combination of whimsy, wit, and pure silliness led them to winning Best Improv Team at the 2025 Maryland Thespian Festival. Performing in their 3rd Laughing Matters, they’re excited to host 2 more wonderful Improv teams on the Hammond Stage on 4/23!

• All County Improv: All County Improv (ACI) is an improv troupe composed of members from each high school in Howard County who band together to create comedic scenes in an instant without the need of a script. Their work is often silly, irreverent and undeniably fun to watch. They’re excited to perform in their 5th Laughing Matters!!!

Meet The Laughing Matters Council:

The Laughing Matters Council is made up of NHS members and improvisers from Hammond High School:

Michael Steinberg: Laughing Matters Head / NHS President / Dramatics Captain

Zofie Blair: Improv Coordinator / ACI Captain / Dramatics Captain

Andrea Dickie: Laughing Matters Advisor / NHS Advisor / Hammond High School Staff

MacKenzie Somerville: Stage Manager / NHS Member

Alyssa Davis: Front of House Manager / NHS Member

Darsh Bhatt: Volunteer Coordinator / NHS Member

John Roberts: Backstage Manager / NHS Member

Jaden Do: Publicist / NHS Member